Modern roses should be dead-headed and trimmed back to a plump bud for quickest repeat of blooms. Cluster-flowered roses should be cut back after flowering to the first bud below the cluster. In many cases the plant will break out and virtually tell you where you should prune. Expect a good crop of blooms for Xmas/New Year.

Unfortunately given our present water restrictions gardeners can only water at specific times of the week so many rose gardens will be suffering from lack of water. However, we must do the best we can under the circumstances and water when we can if we are to have plants better able to withstand lengthy periods of drought.

In heavy soils water must be given at least twice a week with a 2-hour slow soak. Remember that roses are deep-rooting plants, and for water to reach the roots, deep watering is essential. Sandy soils should be watered at least four times a week, but for only half hour periods. If not previously done, mulch beds now to prevent loss of moisture through evaporation.

Historic roses (once-only flowering) that have finished blooming can now be pruned to remove older, non-productive canes, and to make way for new growth which will commence shortly and produce blooms in next Spring/Summer.

Ramblers will be putting up plenty of new climbing canes, and old non-productive canes should be pruned out when flowering ceases.